How to get Free Mulch in the Portland Metro Area

Yesterday, I received an email from “Ben”. Unfortunately, my reply bounced back. Regardless, I said that when asked a question, I would post it here. Ben was interested in more concrete places to get free mulch, and this is what I’ve set to tell him:

We got our free mulch from Asplundh, who I believe were contracted by P.G.E. They trimmed our neighborhood’s trees when I wrote that post a few months ago. They simply had a sign that read, “Free Wood Chips.”

I believe tree trimmers and arborists have to pay a fee to dump mulch, so they’d much rather give it away. I’ve heard that some tree services have a long list of names, so it may just take some inquiring to find out.

As for a place to start… I would contact these companies or agencies in addition to Asplundh:

International Society of Arborists, Pacific Northwest Chapter: http://www.pnwisa.org/ – they may have further direction.

Mark Bourgeois, Arbor Pro Tree Experts, Phone: 503-473-TREE (8733), Website: www.arborpronw.com – this man specifically told me to call his company and they would maintain a list, and if in my neighborhood may be able to donate mulch.
** Update 17-Feb-2013: They no longer do free mulch. Friendly group, so give ’em a call if you need an arborist!

Lastly, I’d call the Oregon City Hall to find out if they use a specific tree service and get that company’s name to call directly.